France 1916: The Battle of the Somme

Australian forces in France 1916 [AWM F00050] 20.2 MB

Made in 1916.
This silent film shows aspects of the AIF presence in France leading up to the operations at Pozières which commenced on 23 July 1916. Below is the Australian War Memorial’s original film synopsis:

Shows scenes of many branches of the Australian Army in France including artillery action (12 inch howitzers and 18 pounders) and men working, training and relaxing behind the lines. General [Sir William] Birdwood watches a tree felling contest held in a French forest between Australians, Canadians and New Zealanders. West Australians move up toward the trenches. Chaplain holds divine service the day before battle.

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